Lesson 8

to talk a lot about unimportant things and in a way that may seem foolish

During the long car ride, the toddler prattled on about imaginary friends and adventures.

to come out of or leave a place

In case of a fire, employees are trained to calmly egress the building using the designated emergency exits.

having a dark brownish-red color

The dress she wore to the party was a beautiful maroon hue.

to tease or mock someone in a playful or good-natured manner

Yesterday, my friends chaffed me about my new haircut, joking that I looked like a movie star.

the cry of an ass

to subject someone to aggressive pressure or intimidation, often causing distress or discomfort

The employee filed a complaint against a coworker who continued to harass them.

a condition of ruin or deterioration, especially one that spoils an area, object, or situation

The abandoned buildings were a blight on the neighborhood.

to treat someone or something with cruelty or violence, often causing harm or suffering

The abusive father was arrested for maltreating his children, leaving them with physical and emotional scars.

having hair of a dark color

to add a substance, such as yeast, to dough or batter, causing it to rise and become lighter during the baking process

She leavens her bread by carefully mixing in yeast and allowing it to ferment, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.

to make someone do something

The convincing argument compelled her to change her stance on the issue.

to twist our face in an ugly way because of pain, strong dislike, etc., or when trying to be funny

As the comedian told the joke, the audience grimaced in a mixture of amusement and discomfort.

intentionally so written (used after a printed word or phrase)

to officially order something using one's higher authority

The religious leader ordained a day of fasting and prayer for the community.

the yowling sound made by a cat in heat

to search for and collect food, typically in natural surroundings such as forests or fields

The bears foraged for berries in the forest, using their keen sense of smell to locate ripe fruit.

to approach or address someone aggressively or boldly, often with an intent to engage in conversation

Street vendors often accost pedestrians, trying to sell their wares.

to sincerely and desperately ask for something

I beseech you, please reconsider your decision and grant me another chance.

to establish or introduce something, such as a policy or program

They instituted new safety protocols to prevent accidents.